Quake Gets Free Expansion on Its 30th Anniversary

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Bethesda is celebrating the 30th anniversary of Quake, the groundbreaking first-person shooter celebrated for its 3D graphics and expanded multiplayer. The developer has released a free DLC, titled “Dawn Of The Machine,” developed by id Software and MachineGames. This new content follows MachineGames’ previous Quake expansions, “Dimension Of The Past” (2016) and “Dimension Of The Machine” (2021). “Dawn Of The Machine” features a 19-map campaign set within an illusionary realm where the protagonist is trapped. The update introduces new gameplay mechanics, a progression system, variations of familiar enemies, an original soundtrack, and a new map for Deathmatch mode, alongside bug fixes. The campaign employs a unique cyclical structure where returning to familiar locations reveals altered paths, new encounters, and secrets. Permanent health and ammo upgrades scattered throughout the realm allow players to grow stronger with each cycle, adding a new layer of progression to Quake. The update also introduces new enemy variants, such as the Rocket Ogre, Demolisher Dog, and Bloodstumble Ragger, which exhibit lethal new behaviors.

Developed by MachineGames in collaboration with id Software, this free update is available for Quake owners across PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Nintendo Switch. The story follows the Ranger as he becomes trapped in a dimension of endless illusions, reliving violent cycles. Rumors of a “Nightmare Machine” lurking beyond hordes of monsters twisted by eternity suggest that its destruction may shatter the illusion and break the loop. The update also expands the player’s arsenal with brutal variants inspired by classic Quake expansions, including the Super Axe that releases bolts with consecutive strikes, and the Laser Cannon that fires ricocheting projectiles.

Dawn of Machine Expansion Launches with Achievements and Console Support for Quake’s 30th Anniversary

“Dawn of the Machine” launched on August 6, 2026, as a free update for Quake on PC (Steam and Game Pass), PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. For Xbox users, access requires owning Quake, an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, or PC Game Pass. This version also includes three new achievements totaling 600 Gamerscore for completing the campaign on any difficulty, on Nightmare mode, and for finding the Death Knight’s Head. Unlike some previous updates, “Dawn of the Machine” does not include an archival development gallery or unfinished prototype levels. The release coincides with the 30th anniversaries of both Quake and QuakeCon, reinforcing the new episode’s connection to the game’s history and its community. The announcement was made via the official PlayStation Blog, with confirmation of its availability on Nintendo Switch and other platforms reported by Gematsu and Pure Xbox. Players are advised to check local store listings for platform-specific details.